BRIT Awards 2017 show to be extended

The BRIT Awards show will be extended by half an hour this year, it has been revealed.

Exclusively broadcast on ITV, the now two-and-a-half hour show will take place on Wednesday, February 22. Dermot O’Leary and Emma Willis were confirmed as hosts earlier this week, replacing Michael Bublé, who is unable to present the show following his young child’s cancer diagnosis.

This year will also see for the first time Clara Amfo, Laura Jackson and Alice Levinehost The BRIT Awards 2017: Red Carpet and Backstage on ITV2, either side of the main awards show.

Amfo said: "I'm excited to be joining The BRITs presenting team this year. I’ve watched the show from as early as I can remember, so to now be a part of it is great, especially getting to host alongside Alice and Laura. I'm ready for all the night is going to bring us!”

Levine added: “The night of the BRIT Awards, is not only a great showcase of British and International music, it's always such a good party too. I'm thrilled to be part of the team, alongside Clara and Laura.”

“I am so thrilled to be hosting the BRITs for ITV2 this year,” said Jackson. “The ceremony always has a real buzz and vibrancy that's infectious, it's so much fun and I have to admit this is my favourite music event of the year. The nominees are incredible and as always there will be some knock out performances! I can't wait to be with Alice and Clara to fly the flag for British music.”

Universal will release a triple CD compilation album on February 17 featuring tracks from the last year. The 3CD BRIT Awards 2017 collection, which is also available as a 60-track download, the album will include 10 UK No.1 singles.